English B2 FCE

Some people like to go shopping when they are feeling a bit under the (0) WEATHER, as they claim that it (1) ............ them up. Unfortunately, while buying yourself treats may give a temporary ‘buzz’, in the long (2) ............ it is not to be recommended, as it can be the first (3) ............ towards shopping addiction and a debt problem. However, some recent research proves that shopping also has its advantages. Walking is (4) ............ as being a good way of reducing the risk of coronary heart disease and on average, British women cover 214 km a year by going to the shops. This (5) ............ at about 4.45 km and 193 calories burnt for every two-hour trip. Going with a friend was found to be even better than shopping on your own because people (6) ............ to stay out longer and cover more distance. So, while retail therapy may not be the (7) ............ of all happiness, it can offer some health benefits, (8) ............, of course, that we don’t do it online.